Kale & Quinoa Pomegranate Salad (Printable Version)

# What You Need:

→ Base

01 - 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 4 cups chopped kale, stems removed

→ Add-ins

04 - ½ cup pomegranate seeds
05 - ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds
06 - ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
07 - ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or mint (optional)

→ Dressing

08 - 3 tbsp olive oil
09 - 2 tbsp lemon juice
10 - 1 tsp maple syrup or agave
11 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
12 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# Steps to Follow:

01 - In a saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. Let cool slightly.
02 - Place chopped kale in a large bowl. Add a pinch of salt and massage with your hands for 1–2 minutes until tender.
03 - In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
04 - Add cooked quinoa to the kale, then mix in pomegranate seeds, red onion, nuts, and herbs.
05 - Pour dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
06 - Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

# Additional Notes:

01 - For a nut-free version, substitute seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
02 - Add crumbled feta or grilled chicken for a heartier option (not vegan).
03 - Great for meal prep—keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.